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April 2016 Newsletter


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From the DL

From the PRO

Legion News
Celebrity Q&A with Bara Heiða and Tómas Árnason
Notable Troops

Memoirs of a Stormtrooper
Swag Alert!
Advanced Tactics Awards
Follow FISD

 

 

 

Greetings Stormtroopers (to include gonnabes/wannabes/fans/groupies)!!

 

It has been a very busy month here at FISD;  we've seen a lot of lively and spirited discussions on all things TK, including many troop reports, new costumes coming our way later this year (Rogue One Trailer), newly available armor kits being approved at the Centurion level, Merchandise designs and runs gearing up for this year, new CRLs being finalized (Imperial Shock Trooper - Battlefront), and a proposed change to the current OT based TK CRLs for Centurion level.

 

It has indeed been busy, but I digress...
 

I'm asking all of the approved Detachment members to take a few minutes to look at the proposed change to the CRLs.  The two week discussion period is about to close, and it will be opened to a Detachment advisory vote for two weeks after that.  I've made it no secret that I'm available to each and every one of you in many ways, and this upcoming vote is a great way for each of you to let myself and the Staff know how you feel about the proposal.  Be involved!

Speaking of being involved,

 

I want to take a moment to thank each one of you for being involved here, for staying involved here.  I have recently mentioned it in one of the new trooper posts, but paying it forward is the lifeblood of Troopers Helping Troopers.  Taking what you've learned, and assisting others - whether they've just signed up, or they're the DL - is how our community grows.  It is how we forge friendships and bonds that extend beyond the borders of any country, and span the globe to truly create our global TK community.  It is each of you, the members of this global community, who make it worth visiting and managing it each and every day.  The knowledge that exists and the growth that happens here are amazing to witness, and it is even more amazing to be a part of it. 

While I'm speaking, let me go on record in saying that you all rock!

One of the most interesting things that I've been able to see since assuming the responsibilities of Detachment Leader is just how wide-spread and alive the spirit of volunteerism and Troopers Helping Troopers really truly is here.  Naturally we see it as members, but to be exposed to all of it in the ways that I am now - consistently being approached by members seeking out ways to help - is truly humbling and it serves as a constant reminder just how special this Detachment is within the 501st Legion itself.  This group of people, this forum, founded by Paul (Daetrin) nearly ten years ago is legitimately comprised of amazing people.  Thank you for being awesome!

 

So in the spirit of Troopers Helping Troopers, and celebrating your collective awesomeness, I'm going to ask each of you to do a few things - for all of us. 

 

First:  Spread the word.  Get those Facebook TKs that you know, and drag them over here.  Show them the kind of impact that they can have on new members simply by sharing what they've learned.  Make sure that other members of your Garrisons and Outposts are aware of what's happening here at FISD.  Merchandise runs (Racing shirt and large patch runs are seriously JUST AROUND THE CORNER!), CRL change votes, great troop reports, amazing builds, new Troopers joining the ranks...  There's a lot happening here that a lot of your peers just aren't aware of, and they're missing out!

 

Second:  You've seen several mentions of the Detachment's upcoming Tenth Anniversary Celebration (July).  If you've got some ideas that you think would be fun to have included in the celebration, please, please, PLEASE...  Message a Staff Member - it doesn't have to be me (but it can be), any one will do - and share that idea.  This is your Detachment, and your input is welcomed and needed to ensure that you as a member, are reflected and celebrated here.

 

Third:  Really, this is an extention of everything that I've already said during this ramble, volunteer.  Contribute.  Your experience here is what you make it in so many ways.  If you've got an idea for the monthly newsletter, share it with Evan or Danny, or any member of the IPM.  If you want to host an armor party, reach out to your local FISD Attache (that definitely needs to be shared with/in your Garrison as well).  If you're active, and helpful, and positive in how you interact with others it will grow that spirit within the new members, and they'll do the same as we move forward together.  In short, keep doing what you're doing, but find a way to take it to the next level.  Everyone here is a kindred nerd-spirit who is excited about some variant of Stormtrooper, just like you are.  Where else do you go on a regular basis, that you can you say that?

 

With Unquestioned Loyalty,
 
Tim
TK-51878 "Dark CMF"
FISD Detachment Leader



Calling all Imperial Citizens who would like to take part in the Imperial Propaganda Machine (IPM)!

One of the IPM's duties is to inform the masses of our latest news and to remind that the Emperor's will is supreme. This is done by releasing our newsletters. We are looking for loyal citizens who would be willing to contribute to the Newsletter Team through writing articles or thinking up of new ideas. Please send me or any of the staff members a PM if you're interested!

 

 

 

Potential recruits and applicants! Have you always wanted to be a Stormtrooper and join the ranks of the 501st Legion? Need information and advice on making smart decisions on acquiring the right armor? Look no further! HelloGreedo gives some tips and pointers below:

 

 

 


With Unquestioned Loyalty,

Evan Loh
TK-24127 "evan_loh"

FISD Public Relations Officer

 

 

 

 

A partnership as been formed between the 501st Legion, the Make-A-Wish Foundation, and Lucasfilm’s Force For Change.

 

Disney-Lucasfilm has announced that they will match charitable donations of up to $1 million (US Dollars) which will be made to Make-A-Wish Foundation.

 

The Make-A-Wish Foundation has been granting wishes of children who have life-threatening medical conditions. And we, the 501st, are really big on charities. It's in our DNA. Make-A-Wish Foundation bring joy to children and families when times are tough.

 

Help us fundraise for Make-A-Wish through the Force for Change campaign by donating through May 5th.

 

Donate on this page: https://www.crowdrise.com/FFCMake-A-Wish/fundraiser/501stLegion

 

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With Unquestioned Loyalty,

Evan Loh
TK-24127 "evan_loh"

FISD Public Relations Officer

 

 

For those who missed last month's (March) Newsletter we posted a music video featuring a 501st Trooper, Tómas Árnason, starring in a music video for a song sung by Bara Heiða. So for this month's Newsletter we reached out to both Bara and Tómas to get to know them better! Video below for your viewing pleasure:

 

 

 

 

 

 

IPM: Tell us about yourself: How did you get into music? How long have you been a Star Wars fan?

 

Bara: I started to sing as a baby. My mother told me strangers would comment on my singing before I learned how to talk. When I was a teenager I started to play a little guitar. My father taught me some and I learned from guitar books I found at home. I saw Star Wars as a child and have liked it ever since. The costumes, the setting, there really is nothing like it.

 

 

IPM: Do you play any instruments? What gave you the idea for the music video?

 

Bara: I play the guitar and ukulele. Recently I have been writing more songs on the ukulele. My brother (Daníel Jón Jónsson) came up with the idea for the video. I instantly loved it. Plus it sounded like something that could look cool without having a large budget.

 

 

IPM: Why did you want to tell a story about a down-and-out Stormtrooper?

 

Bara: If you listen to the lyrics of the song they do not quite match the story of the video. The song is from a female’s perspective after falling in love with a Stormtrooper who leaves for battle. The video tells the story of a Stormtrooper that gets stranded in a strange place and has to adapt.

 

 

IPM: How long was the shoot and edit the video?

 

Bara: We did the shooting and editing in less than two weeks. My brother and his friend Haukur Jóhannesson (Spunk team) were so fast and professional. It was a pleasure to witness them working and at all times was it a pleasure to take part in it. Tómas Ármason (the Stormtrooper TK-22304) was also so lovely to work with. It was an absolute dream team.

 

 

IPM: Is this your first sci-fi themed song? And what have the reactions been like to this? Do you plan to do another Star Wars-themed music video?

 

Bara: Yes, it is my first and most likely last sci-fi themed song. The reactions have been fantastic. The video has over 100.000 views and the song is currently number 3 in the Icelandic charts, also getting radio airplay in Germany and the Farao Islands.

 

 

IPM: Where can people download the song?

 

Bara: People can download this and three other recorded songs at www.baraheida.bandcamp.com

Sometimes it is not like I just write songs, but more like they come to me. It was like that with this song. It came to me and included a Stormtrooper. I let it be as it was instead of trying to change it into something it was not.

 

Some people commented that they would prefer the song if it was in Icelandic or if the lyrics were different. Sometimes it is important to realize that you can't make everyone happy and the most important voice to listen to, is your own.

 

 

 

Interview with Tómas Árnason:

 

IPM: How long have you been a Star Wars fan?

Tómas: As long as I can remember. The first strong Star Wars memories I had were seeing the remastered edition of New Hope in the local cinema of my home town. After that Star Wars was somehow always there in my life. Then when I found out about the 501st I was amazed right away. “Bad guys doing good” just sparked something within me and I started to look for ways to be part of that. 


IPM: How long have you been a member of the 501st, and what garrison/outpost do you belong to? 

 

Tómas: I became a member in October 2015 so I'm still a bit fresh. I then joined the Icelandic Outpost and have been trooping ever since, helping to spread the word of the good work the 501st does and Star Wars in general.


IPM: Where was the music video shot?

Tómas: There are a few locations. The big snow field is shot out of Reykjavík, around a town called Hveragerði. Then there is Geysir which is a geyser in southwestern Iceland. But for the most part the shots are around Reykjavík. Nexus (comic book store), Bæjarins Bestu (hot dog stand), Slippbarinn (restaurant/bad workplace), and the Plain Vanilla office (good workplace).

IPM: How was filming like? Were you told the whole story from the start or were you asked to act a certain way there and then?

Tómas:  I did get a short list or an early script and got to have some input on what I was able to do in the armor. Daníel and Haukur, the guys who were directing and filming, had a really clear and good idea right from the start. When filming a scene they gave us the basic and then let us act it out, giving us the freedom of acting more natural and not feel forced in the scene. They did manage to keep it relaxed and fun, but at the same time being very professional about it.



IPM: There has been many Star Wars fan films produced. Do you think this experience has given you urge to star in more films?

Tómas: I would love to. It was a fun experience and I would not say no to another chance at it. I think it is safe to say I can act a little bit, well at least with a helmet on ;-)

And who knows. The new Star Wars movies are rumored to have some scene taken in Iceland, so if anyone is looking for a local Stormtrooper they know where to find me :-)

 

 

 

With Unquestioned Loyalty,

 

Alison Machado

"manyhighkicks"

Imperial Propaganda Department

 

 

Amazing Austin's 5th Birthday

The 501st Legion's Empire City Garrison attended Amazing Austin's 5th Birthday at the Morgan Center for Kids with Cancer in Hicksville, NY. The event was on Friday, February 26th 2016 from 12:00pm - 1:00pm. Chris Feehan (TK-6744), Ron Lares (SL-5928), Anthony Paladino (TK-10666), and Steve Sheades (TK-10466) were in attendance. We normally do not do birthdays, but this is a special case for a young boy battling cancer. Austin has been battling cancer since he was 16 months old, and for his 5th Birthday his mother called on us to make a visit. He is a huge Star Wars fan and wanted to meet his favorite characters. We made it happen and visited him at the Morgan Center for kids with Cancer, along with some of his classmates, friends, and relatives. The Morgan Center is a pre-school for kids with cancer, and he loves going there. We took photos with Austin and the attendees, handed out citations, and wished him a very happy birthday. It was a fantastic experience and we were honored to participate

And on to the photos!



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More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/36152-amazing-austins-5th-birthday/

Steve - starsaber25 - 10466


Montreal's St-Patrick's Parade 2016

Hello troops,

We took part in the Montreal St-Patricks parade on Sunday March 20th 2016. This was our second years. Last year we were with the SPCA, this year, we were invited on our own. All three Star Wars were present; 501st, Rebel Legion and the Mandalorian Mercs.

Here are a couple of snapshots of the event.
 

More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/36414-montreals-st-patricks-parade-2016/

Eric - Tolo - 37427


St-Patrick's Parade, Hudson Qc

Hello Troops,

Saturday, March 19th was Hudson's St-Patrick's parade. Here are a couple of pictures of the event. For some reason, I love parades lol.

And on to the photos

More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/36373-st-patricks-parade-hudson-qc/

Eric - Tolo - 37427


White House Easter Egg Roll

Due to the nature of this event we had very strict instructions due to where it was and with the people involved. The biggest requirement was that since The Force Awakens Stormtroopers were requested and The Empire Strikes Back Darth Vader we could not be seen together.

We went through security and watched the rain that began on Sunday Night dreading going out and having a wet undersuit for 12 hours. The families came in groups and we had a schedule of specific times and events to follow. Bob and Charles worked their magic and interfacing with the Disney Group made it an incredible experience! The sun came out around 10am and from there it was a beautiful day!

We were told there was going to be a special event for the First Order TKs. About an hour before the event the FO TKs were to escort POTUS & FLOTUS. Security was very tight and we followed all their instructions and there were no falls, trips or disasters!

The picture sessions for both Vader and the Stormtroopers were overwhelming! It would start with 10 families and in minutes lines were 50 to 75 feet long and getting longer. We did between 30 to 45 minutes each session. Numerous celebrities were at this event wanting to get pictures with the Star Wars Characters. I give huge credit for Bob, Charles again in addition to the Volunteers for the event for keeping things flowing and having patience to deal with the crowds.

When it was over we were suited up for about 8 hours. We did strip the armor off for a precautionary bathroom and water break for an hour and walked around the grounds. It was an honor to have participated in such a fun day at the White House with all the families and the other different characters!

And on to the photos!
 

 

More here: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/36459-white-house-easter-egg-roll-2016/

Michael - TriumphTrooper8 - 10114

 

On March 20th 2016 the Puerto Rico Garrison participated alongside The Rebel Legion and the Mandalorian Mercs on the Saint Patrick's Day Parade in Guaynabo Puerto Rico. Here are some photos:

 

 

And this one is a bonus goof:

 

 

Christian - v7sg - 9539

 

 

 

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Ruben Santos or TK-34281 (you might know him as Crusader_6 here in the forums) is an ARMY veteran and for the last 4 years has been a Police Officer on the Puerto Rico’s Police Force.

 

 

When I asked him about his most memorable troop he told me that it was the visit that last Christmas the 501st had with members from the Puerto Rico National Guard to the My Little Joshua Foster home for kids, to give presents to the children. In his own words he told us:
“I was scared at first since we were dealing with small kids aged from 3-6 years old and usually they get scared with masked characters. I remember that I was the first to arrive at the Foster home and started talking with the caregivers and one of them told me that these children don’t have a family, the parents are either in jail or in rehab. These kids have lots of love to give ( and they do need some in return).
When we were in costume with the children, I got a bit choked up, but held my composure. At first one of the kids was afraid of us and didn’t want to come out. The gifts were given to the children by members of the legion and members from the National Guard. The children were happy that we were there, they wanted us to play with them. And remember that kid that was afraid? By the time we were almost done, she came out and started playing too.
I joined the 501st Legion for moments like this. I think that reception was good and I think they expect us again this year. For sure I will be there again”

 

 

With Unquestioned Loyalty,

 

Christian Burgos-Hernández
TK-9539 "v7sg"

Imperial Propaganda Department

 

 

We have heard you loud and clear, Troops!  Yes, in just a few short weeks you will have the chance to order your own spiffy new FISD racing shirts, personalized with your screen name and TK number!

 

The price and shipping cost have yet to be pinned down exactly, but they should be right about the same as the last one, which was $30.00 for the shirt, $7.00 for Priority Mail shipping in the U.S., and $26.00 First Class for international, (based on one shirt) from the manufacturer.  Exact numbers will be in the official post.

 

The complete list of information on this run will be posted on May 1st, and the run will last until approximately June 1st.  Here are some sample questions you may be wondering about in the meantime, though:

 

1.  I don't have my official 501st i.d. yet.  Can I order one? -  You must have your 501st approved TK or TD designation i.d. number to order one. 

 

2.  I am a TD, can I order one?-  Yes, if you are 501st approved with a TD number.

 

3.  Can I order one for my wife/child/handler?-  Sorry, but again, you must be an approved TK or TD with a valid, up to date 501st Legion i.d.#. Sorry, no exceptions.

 

4.  How long will it take once I order?-  The payment will go to the manufacturer right after June 1st, so please allow up to 4 weeks for me to receive them and get them mailed out, and another week for the USPS to get them to you via tracked Priority Mail.  International orders may get theirs sooner.

 

5.  How will I know what size to order?-  See chart size below.

 

6.  Are there different colors available?-  Sorry, but no.

 

7.  Are these the same shirts as the last run?  You bet!

 

 

And while you are waiting for the racing shirts to kick off don't forget that as 501st members you are entitled to an ongoing run of FISD T-shirt, tank-tops, and hoodies!

 

 

Please follow the instructions on this link to visit our store: http://www.whitearmor.net/forum/topic/27166-open-permanently-ongoing-fisd-shirts/

 

 

With Unquestioned Loyalty,

 

Joseph Pedigo
TK-10963 "justjoseph63"

FISD Ambassador

 



This month the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment would like to congratulate:

Expert Infantry Badge Award:

 

Blayne Fitzpatrick "BlayneFitz" TK-42105

Chris Lewis "welshchris77" TK-11677

Michael Perkins "TriumphTrooper8" TK-10114

Charles Holmes "MrOrange" TK-79433

Conrad Lujan (Tahitoa) "Order-66" TK-50106

Gary Hill "Sentry71" TK-11146

Richard Boyda "hupspring" TK-17695

Jeff Salt "wingnut65" TK-50297

Dave Adams "bobafret" TK-72569

Omar Treyes "RoninTK72" TK-56072

Dave Walker "PBTrooper" TK-10737
Gregory Cabrer "Gory" TK-50216

Jaren Henderson "Jaren" TK-71177

Aaron (AJ) Edman "Anzo" TK-77964

Brian Cook "Blackyck" TK-25259

Ricky Resurreccion "RickyBoyBlue" TK-74259

Rene Reicht "Charon" TK-14976

Taylor Fiore "whostaylor" TK-21808

Darren Mullen "Darren TK-11916" TK-11916

Jesse Terrazas "Misfit13" TK-10313

 

 

Centurion Award:
 

 

Andy Samson "Tig70" TK-83970
Daryl Doak "daryldoak" TK-11371

Allan Liefke "allan1313" TK-97491

Chris Lewis "welshchris77" TK-11677

Charles Holmes "MrOrange" TK-79433

Jeff Salt "wingnut65" TK-50297

Kris Yalung "VenicioKristylz" TK-70714

Omar Treyes "RoninTK72" TK-56072

Jaren Henderson "Jaren" TK-71177

Richard Boyda "hupspring" TK-17695

Ricky Resurreccion "RickyBoyBlue" TK-74259

 

Stand tall and be proud of what you have achieved troopers. You will now be deployed into the First Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment Advanced Tactics Roster. Make us proud troopers!

The FISD is always looking for new applicants for our Advanced Tactics program so please do not hesitate to apply if you meet the standards! Our Deployment Officer and armorers are here to help and guide you through to success!

Feel like your armor is up to standards and worth of recognition? Apply for the Expert Infantry Badge Program now!

Want to go the extra mile, raise the standards of Stormtrooper armor, and be the envy of your peers? Apply for the Centurion Program now!

Note: Applicants need to be EIB approved before applying for Centurion.

With Unquestioned Loyalty,

Evan Loh
TK-24127 "evan_loh"
FISD Public Relations Officer

 


Don't Forget We're on Facebook and Twitter!

Facebook: www.facebook.com/whitearmor
If you're on FB, stop by and say hi, ask questions, and share stories!

Twitter: www.twitter.com/FISD501st or @FISD501st
follow FISD on Twitter!


Instagram: www.instagram.com/501stfisd

With Unquestioned Loyalty,

Evan Loh
TK-24127 "evan_loh"
FISD Public Relations Officer


On behalf of the 1st Imperial Stormtrooper Detachment Command Staff and the Imperial Propaganda Department,

<End Transmission>

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Update: Check Swag section in the Newsletter for available FISD T-shirts, tank-tops, or hoodies while waiting for the highly anticipated racing shirts!

How do I find the FISD store? I tried the link but can't seem to find it. I have my TK number and I am logged in.

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I wasn't even aware there WAS a newsletter until now. And I'm featured in it to boot! Well done and I look forward to future editions.

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Love it, Love it, love it!!

Again another great newsletter, and the HelloGreedo Vid is excellent.

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How do I find the FISD store? I tried the link but can't seem to find it. I have my TK number and I am logged in.

 

You've got to request for 501st access in the Getting Started section.

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I never knew there was a store. What is the link?

 

Please follow the instructions on this link to visit our store: http://www.whitearmo...ng-fisd-shirts/

 

Note that you would need to have a TK ID to have access to the link above. If you are already a 501st member you may apply for 501st access in this forum in the Getting Started section.

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You've got to request for 501st access in the Getting Started section.

I just saw that I missed the last step. Was all excited to get my TKID and never requested access on white armor. Just made a post requesting with my link

I appreciate the help!

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I just saw that I missed the last step. Was all excited to get my TKID and never requested access on white armor. Just made a post requesting with my link

I appreciate the help!

 

Great! Just saw your request. It's a pretty neat store. The link will send you to a page with instructions on how to access the store (which is on a different link) and it is password protected.

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Thank You for the newsletter.  As much as I would like to be online every day, sometimes I just can't do it.  This DOES help.    And the LINKS, SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO Grateful.   Such a time saver...

 

 

 

Dan

 

 

TKNoWay  66929

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I wasn't even aware there WAS a newsletter until now. And I'm featured in it to boot! Well done and I look forward to future editions.

 

Enjoy the newsletter! Go check out our previous newsletters where we had some awesome interviews as well!

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Great job on the newsletter!!

 

Thank you for not only putting out the information, but this is super motivational as well.

Great to hear about Lucasfilm committing to matching donations!

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